Historical Record of the Fourth, or Royal Irish Regiment of Dragoon Guards. Containing an Account of the Formation of the Regiment in 1685; and of Its Subsequent Services to 1838

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The memoir centers on a regiment that emerged from the turmoil in England during King James II's early reign, rooted in the upheaval caused by King Charles I's policies. These events ignited a fervor of puritanical zeal and democratic outrage, leading to the execution of Charles I and the royal family's exile. After the Restoration in 1660, King Charles II concealed his Catholic faith, while his brother, James Duke of York, openly embraced Roman Catholicism, making him unpopular. With no legitimate heirs, Charles II's illegitimate son, James Duke of Monmouth, a popular Protestant leader, sought the throne. In June 1685, he arrived in England with armed followers, rallying support in the west. Despite widespread anxiety, King James II's commitment to the established Protestant religion fostered loyalty among the populace. Various disaffected groups joined Monmouth, but many rallied to the royal cause. This narrative, while potentially tedious for some, is crucial for officers and soldiers who value their regiment's history. It details the formation of the Royal Irish Dragoon Guards, tracing the origins of its troops raised during Monmouth's rebellion by notable figures, culminating in their incorporation into a Cuirassier regiment after the battle of Sedgemoor. The Colonelcy was granted to the Earl of Arran, with key positions filled by other distinguished officers.